They still love football in Texas, perhaps as much as any place on the planet.

But they may not love it in quite the same way as they used to.

According to a University of Texas/Texas Tribune Poll, nearly half of the state’s registered voters have an unfavorable opinion of the NFL in particular.

Perhaps as concerning for Cowboys owner Jerry Jones and Texans owner Bob McNair and the league in general is that 27 percent of all respondents had no opinion whatsoever.

If football was trumping controversy, these numbers would be much more positive than they are, said Jim Henson, head of the Texas Politics Project at UT-Austin. And they would not show the demographic patterns that are clearly evident here.

The numbers certainly explain Jones’ overt concern and wish to make the issue go away, but as long as someone believes it’s a political winner, there’s little chance he’ll let it go anytime soon.

Hali has not made any formal announcement and said during an appearance on Sirius XM NFL Radio that he wants to continue playing at times. Other times find him feeling no desire to return to the game and he cited a desire to spend time with his four kids and pursue his interest in music as reasons why he thinks he’s played his final snap.

I just need to continue to work out and do my music, Hali said. I don’t want to focus too much on football. I don’t see myself getting back into football. I see myself being involved with the Chiefs somehow, maybe as a specialist being able to teach the guys. I don’t want to lie to myself. I think the time has come.

Hali had 89.5 sacks during his 12 years in the league and was asked if the prospect of getting to 100 for his career could lead to a different decision. Hali admitted it would be nice to hit that number, but is content knowing that he gave it my best, my all over the last dozen seasons.